By Richard Otim
“New Energy,” a breath of fresh leadership in Teso has clung to the air, promising to revitalize communities long withered by years of broken promises and political indifference. This wave of optimism is spearheaded by Echodu Calvin David, a name synonymous with a new dawn for the disenfranchised.
In the heart of “New Energy” lay in a simple, yet revolutionary idea that for the people to rise above poverty – “It’s by themselves and only with them.”
This means that self-determination, not reliance on the so called “arrow liberators”, is the core belief and key to unlocking Teso’s potential.
This philosophy resonates deeply with the people, especially those disillusioned by the current crop of leaders in Teso who habitually forget their constituents after elections.
In Kumi County, the environment is fast crackling with anticipation. The “New Energy” torch here has been taken up by Charles Opolot, a veteran journalist and communications specialist. His calm demeanor and sharp intellect offer a stark contrast to the familiar faces of established politicians in the area.
Opolot, fueled by the “New Energy” philosophy, has announced his intention to contest for the position of Member of Parliament for Kumi County, taking on the incumbent, State Minister for Minerals and Natural Resources, Okaasai.
“The power to transform our people lies within themselves and we (leaders) must be the architects of their future, helping them to building the plans. That’s why those clinging to power will continue buying your vote and pay no attention to your needs,” asserts Opolot.
Opolot, a strong believer in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ideology also envisions a Kumi County and entire Teso, where education flourishes, especially in primary schools struggling with inadequate resources. He speaks passionately about improving maternal and child health, ensuring support for orphans and vulnerable children, and empowering the grassroots.
“New Energy will actualize the NRM ideology with humility, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment to the people. We can only achieve great things if we work together, shoulder to shoulder,” adds Opolot.
The weight of Kumi’s long-standing leadership decay pressed heavily to his conscious, but the “New Energy” drive and focus have energized him.
Opolot, promises to champion aspirations of “New Energy”, leveraging the NRM ideology to bring about genuine social transformation in Kumi.
“We have been ignored for too long, they promise our people heaven on earth, but deliver empty words. New Energy is about action, about accountability, about building a better Kumi, together,” Opolot explains.
Certainly too, the journey isn’t going to be easy for him. Opolot faces a formidable opponent with deep pockets and established mafia networks.
The old guard would not relinquish their power either without a fight but as the sun sets each day, a sense of hope, fueled by the “New Energy” mantra, lingers in the air.
Thick and blowing, the wind of change in Kumi has been welcomed and the people are ready to fight for their future. It will only possible, “by you and with you”, fueled by the promise of New Energy.